AI Music Platform Suno Reaches 2 Million Subscribers—As Industry Backlash Grows

Forbes Business

by Conor Murray, Forbes Staff

February 26, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

AI music platform Suno has reached a significant milestone, surpassing 2 million paid subscribers and generating over $300 million in annual revenue. Despite facing intense backlash from the music industry, including copyright lawsuits and a “Say No to Suno” campaign led by artist rights groups, the startup continues to grow rapidly since its 2023 launch. The platform claims to be the future of entertainment, allowing users to create music through text prompts while offering both paid subscriptions and a limited free version. Suno’s rapid expansion has drawn criticism from artists and labels, who accuse the company of “scraping” copyrighted music for AI training without permission. Major record labels like Warner Music, Sony, and Universal Music Group filed lawsuits against Suno in 2024,指控 copyright infringement. While Warner settled with Suno in November, partnering with the platform to develop licensed AI models, other lawsuits remain active. The company defends its practices under fair use doctrine, likening its AI training to a musician learning from existing works. The “Say No to Suno” campaign, supported by artist groups and luminaries like Billie Eilish and Katy Perry, highlights concerns over diluted royalties and the flood of low-quality AI-generated music on streaming platforms. Critics view Suno’s rise as a threat to traditional copyright protections and artistic integrity. Meanwhile, Suno continues to innovate, with its co-founder touting its ability to democratize music creation and attract over 100 million users globally. The controversy underscores the broader debate surrounding AI in creative industries. While some see it as a tool for inclusivity and innovation, others worry about the erosion of artists’ rights and livelihoods. As Suno navigates legal battles and partnerships, its success raises important questions about the balance between technological progress and traditional artistic value. For businesses and readers interested in the future of AI-driven entertainment, Suno’s trajectory offers insights into both opportunity and conflict in the digital age.

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Originally published on Forbes Business on 2/26/2026